Taqwa is the greatest provision. Believers cannot choose disobedience. It is imperative upon us to endure the heat of our base desires. Succumbing to the temptations of our Nafs leads to Jahannum. When we will hold back to preserve the demands of Taqwa, we will be strong in steadfastness. Most certainly Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله will respond to our supplications. The fruit of Taqwa is exceptional; it results in honour in this world and recognition in the Aakhirah.

We will be lured towards disobedience and at times, the desire may be overpowering – on these occasions, let us lift up our feeble hands and plead unto Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله to grant us strength. Even when we are involved in virtuous deeds, we cannot ignore the treachery of the Nafs. History gives testimony to the pious before; they perished and were destroyed because they gave in to the desires of the Nafs. The path to Jannah lies in giving up our desires. Furthermore, perfection and success will be attained when we are diligent in solitude. Our objective is solely the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله. The help of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله can only be achieved if we fortify our relationship with Him. We will definitely have to make sacrifices and exercise patience (by being steadfast on obedience) and staying away from those things that are prohibited.

Hazrat Shaqeeq Balkhi رحمه الله has said; “I obtained the attribute of Ridha’ of Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله (ie to be pleased with Allah Ta’ala جل جلاله at all times, whether in adversity or prosperity, health or sickness, safety or fear) in four things:
1. To be unconcerned about sustenance (rizq).
2. Sincerity (ikhlaas) in everything.
3. To regard Shaitān and the desires of the Nafs as enemies.
4. To accumulate the provisions for the Aakhirah